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  3. 1266183196

Getting Started

Hi, I'm totally new to this hobby. So new, in fact, I have no system at all. After lurking here for a while, I thought it best to visit my local audiophile store. I did that last week and alas, it was not a good experience. When the clerks stopped ignoring me, they were very disinterested in my newby-questions and I was pretty quickly pissed off at what I perceived to be their dismissive, knowledge-snob attitude. What is so unfortunate about this is I live in a rural area and that's the only shop within 40 miles of me. I'm wondering if I can lean on you guys to help me put together a sub $2K amp and speaker pairing. It sucks to not demo but I don't have much choice currently. In the future, when I can find a good store where I can actually demo some stuff, I can upgrade. Right now, I just want to get into the game! I want a couple of floor-standers for primarily music (they'll be hooked to the TV as well). My room is 13x22. Thanks in advance.
badmoth

Showing 4 responses by badmoth

badmoth OP
4 posts
 
I will do so. Thanks!
badmoth OP
4 posts
 
Thank you! I am overwhelmed. I started this thread this afternoon and I was pretty dejected. I went out to eat and returned to see your responses so I'm very pleased you guys were willing to help. First of all, I primarily listen to classic rock music. I minor in classical, big bands, and jazz. I want to stick with some floorstanding speakers because I'm pretty certain I'm only going to live in my house for another year. When I move, the space is going to be bigger. It's a strange thing about the stereo store. I'm into photography as well and the same thing has gone on in camera stores for years. The guys who "get it" will always have time for the newby. Stupid. Anyway, enough of that. I will look further afield. Or when I move, I will make it my business to get aquainted with a top notch store. As for now, I'm okay with buying new or used here on Audiogon but I was thinking new. Jax2: I am looking for an integrated but not totally opposed to pre/power. Tpreaves: Thanks for those links! Since all of my research has been from the web or Stereophile mag, I am limited to what I've read good things about. I have definitely read good things about NAD and PSB. My source is my computer or blu ray player for now. I have a question about some specific components for you guys. First, the Onkyo A-9555 amp keeps popping up as a decent budget amp. Any thoughts about that? And Tpreaves, you mention the PSB Image T65. I see that speaker on the link you sent me but when I go to PSB's website, it isn't on there. Stereophile has a review of PSB Image T6 this month. It's a different speaker though because it retails for $1200 a pair. The T65 says $799 a pair. Again, thanks everyone.
badmoth OP
4 posts
 
Thank you, Rod1957. I will continue to bother you guys while I search for another!
badmoth OP
4 posts
 
Again, I'm really thankful for all the responses. I'm really swimming in info here. Question about amps and power: That PSB Image T65 has to be a serious contender at $799. If I went with that speaker, would a 50wpc amp such as the Peachtree Decco or NAD C326BEE be sufficient? Or should I stick with something more stout (such as the C355BEE mentioned earlier)?
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